Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Biblical Times, a new exhibition featuring the most comprehensive collection of ancient artifacts from Israel ever organized, including one of the largest collections of the priceless 2,000-year-old Dead Sea Scrolls displayed in North America along with an actual three-ton stone from Jerusalem's Western Wall, is making its world premiere at Discovery Times Square (226 West 44th Street) from October 28, 2011 through April 15, 2012.
"The exhibition brings to life a fascinating period in history and vividly highlights how archaeologists and researchers piece together the past by examining and interpreting objects from daily life and ancient written documents. Israel's archaeological sites and the artifacts they have yielded provide a record of extraordinary human achievement. The pots, coins, weapons, jewelry, and of course, the scrolls on display in this exhibition constitute a momentous contribution to our cultural legacy. They teach us about the past and also about ourselves," said Dr. Risa Levitt Kohn, exhibition curator.
James Sanna, CEO of Discovery Times Square, added: "This unique new exhibit embodies the best that Discovery Times Square has to offer – quality, historical stories that are brought to life right in front of visitors' eyes. We are proud and excited to bring this exhibit to New York City as the world premiere."
"The collection on display highlights the Israel Antiquities Authority's Department of National Treasures," said Debora Ben Ami, Curator of the Iron Age collection at the IAA. "Israel is a country where history is considered a treasure and our most important national asset."
Following its New York premiere, the exhibition will travel to Philadelphia's The Franklin Institute for a 5-month run beginning in May 2012.
Exhibition highlights include more than 500 artifacts from the Biblical to Byzantine Period in Israel including many objects from recent archaeological excavations in Jerusalem that have never been publicly exhibited. The artifacts and Scrolls combine to provide a captivating and intriguing look at one of the most influential periods in history including the emergence of ancient Israel and the births of Judaism and Christianity in the Holy Land. Objects on display will include remains of religious articles, weapons of war, stone carvings, textiles and beautiful mosaics along with everyday household items such as jewelry and ceramics.
In addition, the exhibition will feature a scale recreation of a section of Jerusalem's Western Wall – complete with an authentic three-ton stone from the Wall in Israel. It is believed that this stone fell from the southwest corner of the Second Temple's outer wall during the Roman invasion in 70 CE.
The 20-scroll exhibit (10 scrolls displayed at a time, with 4 scrolls making their world debut) will include pieces from the biblical books of Psalms, Isaiah, Deuteronomy and others.
This exhibition is created by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) from the collections of the Israel National Treasures and produced by Discovery Times Square and The Franklin Institute. The exhibition is curated by Dr. Risa Levitt Kohn (Professor at San Diego State University) and Debora Ben Ami (Iron Age collection curator at the IAA). Planning and design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates, New York, NY and consultation by noted Dead Sea Scrolls expert, Dr. Lawrence Schiffman (Vice-Provost of Undergraduate Education, Yeshiva University).
Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Biblical Times will run from October 28, 2011 through April 15, 2012 at Discovery Times Square (226 West 44th Street).
Discovery Times Square is open seven days a week. Last tickets are sold 90 minutes prior to closing. For individual tickets and venue hours, visit www.DiscoveryTS.com, call 866.9.TSXNYC (212-987-9692) or visit the Discovery Times Square box office. Tickets are available for $19.50 (child 4-12), $25.00 (adult) and $22.50 (senior = 65). Special savings for groups of 15 or more with advanced reservations.
About Discovery Times Square
Discovery Times Square (DTS) is New York City's first large-scale exhibition center presenting visitors with limited-run, educational and immersive exhibit experiences while exploring the world's defining cultures, art, history and events. More than a museum, DTS has featured a renowned line-up of exhibitions including Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Leonardo Da Vinci's Workshop, King Tut, Pompeii The Exhibit, and Harry Potter: The Exhibition. DTS is located at 226 West 44th Street (between Broadway and 8th Avenues).
About the Franklin Institute
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute is a renowned and innovative leader in the field of science and technology learning, as well as a dynamic center of activity. Pennsylvania's most visited museum, it is dedicated to creating a passion for learning about science by offering access to hands-on science education. Considered one of the great science centers in the nation and the world, The Franklin Institute is known for blockbuster exhibits, one-of-a-kind theatrical experiences, and cutting-edge community learning with national influence. All are aimed at explaining science in ways that impact people's lives. For more information, visit www.fi.edu.
Source: Discovery Times Square [October 28, 2011]